Optical couplings having coded magnetic arrays and devices incorporating the same

ABSTRACT

Optical couplings for making and optical connection between one or more devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an optical coupling includes a coupling face, an optical interface within the coupling face, an optical component positioned within the optical interface, and at least one coded magnetic array. The at least one coded magnetic array may include a plurality of magnetic regions configured aid in mating the optical component with a corresponding optical component of a complementary mated optical coupling to a predetermined tolerance for optical communication. Optical cable assemblies and electronics devices having optical couplings with optical interfaces using coded magnetic arrays are also disclosed.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 ofU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/420,673 filed on Dec. 7, 2010and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/420,679 filed on Dec. 7,2010 the contents of which are relied upon and incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure generally relates to optical couplings and, moreparticular, optical couplings comprising an optical interface and acoded magnetic array.

Fiber optic cables have advantages over conventional copper conductorcables especially as data rates increase due to bandwidth limitations ofcopper cables. As a result, fiber optic cables have replaced much of thecopper in communication networks and are migrating into otherapplication spaces. As the use of fiber optics migrates into numerousconsumer electronics applications, such as connecting computerperipherals by the use of fiber optic cable assemblies, there will be aconsumer-driven expectation for cables having improved performance,compatibility with future communication protocols, and a broad range ofuse. Unlike telecommunication optical connections, consumer applicationsexperience a large number of mating and unmating cycles that may causeissues with reliability and performance over the desired number ofmating cycles. For instance, conventional opto-mechanical interfacesutilized to optically couple an optical cable assembly to active opticalcomponents of an electronics device require precise mechanicalstructures to properly align the optical fibers of the optical cableassembly with the laser(s) and/or photodiode(s) of the electronicsdevice. Consequently, conventional opto-mechanical interfaces requiretight tolerances for alignment that are expensive, may not be ruggedenough for consumer electronics applications, and/or will have degradedperformance over the desired number of mating cycles. For instance, themechanical structures often cause the optical interface of the opticalcable assembly and the electronics device to be susceptible to thebuild-up of foreign substances (e.g., dust, liquid, food particles,etc.) that may interfere with the mating and propagation of opticalsignals between the optical cable assembly and the electronics device.

Accordingly, alternative optical couplings, optical cable assemblies andelectronics devices are desired.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to optical couplings, suchas optical couplings utilized by optical cable assemblies and electronicdevices, for optical communication. As an example, an optical cableassembly may comprise an optical coupling at each end that is configuredto mate with corresponding optical couplings of electronics devices sothat two (or more) coupled electronics devices may communicate with oneanother via optical signals over the optical cable assembly.

More specifically, embodiments are directed to optical couplingscomprising an optical interface within a coupling face of an opticalcable assembly or an electronics device, and one or more coded magneticarrays configured to optically couple an optical component of theoptical coupling with a corresponding (i.e., complimentary) opticalcomponent of a mated optical coupling. The optical interface may beeasily accessible to a user so that the user may wipe the opticalinterface of any foreign substances, such as dirt, dust, liquid etc. Theoptical interface may also be liquid-displacing, such that liquids aresubstantially displaced from the optical interface upon connection withthe optical interface of a mated optical coupling.

The coded magnetic arrays may be configured to both maintain two opticalcouplings coupled together by magnetic force, as well as provide theprecise alignment between optical components associated with the opticalcouplings. Such optical components may be, without limitation, opticalfibers of an optical cable assembly, laser diodes, photodiodes, and thelike. The coded magnetic array may provide high accuracy alignmentwithout having to resort to the precision fits that conventionalopto-electronic interfaces using pins or rails require. The codedmagnetic array (or arrays) may comprise a plurality of magnetic regionsconfigured to be magnetically coupled to a corresponding coded magneticarray to optically couple the optical components. In another embodiment,mechanical features may also be provided to help maintain theconnections between mated optical couplings. Electrically conductivefeatures may also be optionally included to provide electrical powerthrough the coupling as well. By way of example, the optical couplingsdisclosed herein may be disposed on a connector of a cable assembly, anelectronics device, or like devices.

One aspect of the disclosure is directed to an optical couplingincluding a coupling face, an optical interface within the couplingface, an optical component positioned within the optical interface, andat least one coded magnetic array having a plurality of magnetic regionsconfigured for mating the optical component. The optical coupling mayalso optionally include other features. For instance, the opticalcomponent may optionally be optically aligned using a lens such as atleast one graded-refractive index (GRIN) lens. Embodiments may alsooptionally position a lens with facet angled with respect to the opticalinterface such as at an angle between 0 degrees to 10 degrees asdesired. The optical interface may be substantially planar so that it isaccessible and easy to clean. Furthermore, the optical coupling (whetherit includes a lens or not) uses the at least one coded magnetic array tooptically couple and align optical components and/or active devices witha complimentary component of a mated optical coupling to within lessthan 40 microns of the respective centerlines. In other words, the codedmagnetic array allows fine alignment for the optical coupling.

Another aspect of the disclosure is an optical cable assembly includinga connector housing having a coupling face, a lens assembly within theconnector housing, the lens assembly including an optical interface anda lens component, an optical fiber including a fiber end that ismaintained within the lens assembly at a fiber end location, and atleast one coded magnetic array, the at least one coded magnetic arrayincluding a plurality of magnetic regions configured for aligning thecoupling face.

A further aspect of the disclosure is an electronics device having adevice housing comprising a housing surface, an optical coupling withinthe housing surface, the optical coupling including an optical interfacewithin the housing surface, an active optical component positionedwithin the device housing and in an optical path of an optical signaltransmitted into and/or out of the optical interface, and at least onecoded magnetic array having a plurality of magnetic regions configuredfor mating the active optical component.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detaileddescription which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to thoseskilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing theembodiments as described herein, including the detailed descriptionwhich follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are merely exemplary, and areintended to provide an overview or framework to understanding the natureand character of the claims. The accompanying drawings are included toprovide a further understanding, and are incorporated in and constitutea part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments, andtogether with the description serve to explain principles and operationof the various embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The components of the following figures are illustrated to emphasize thegeneral principles of the present disclosure and are not necessarilydrawn to scale. The embodiments set forth in the drawings areillustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit thesubject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed descriptionof the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read inconjunction with the following drawings, where like structure isindicated with like reference numerals and in which:

FIG. 1A schematically depicts an optical coupling according to one ormore embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 1B schematically depicts an optical cable assembly coupled to anelectronics device both having respective optical couplings according toone or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 2 schematically depicts a top, side perspective view of anelectronics device having an optical coupling according to one or moreembodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 3A schematically depicts a close-up view of the optical couplingdepicted in FIG. 2;

FIG. 3B schematically depicts a top, front perspective view of anexplanatory connector assembly having an optical coupling according toone or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 4A schematically depicts a top, side perspective view of theelectronics device depicted in FIG. 1 having a portion of a devicehousing removed according to one or more embodiments shown and describedherein;

FIG. 4B schematically depicts internal components of the opticalcoupling depicted in FIG. 2 according to one or more embodiments shownand described herein;

FIG. 4C schematically depicts a side view of an optical signal within anoptical coupling according to one or more embodiments shown anddescribed herein;

FIG. 5 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of a lens assemblyaccording to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 6A schematically depicts a top, rear-side exploded view of a lensassembly according to one or more embodiments shown and describedherein;

FIG. 6B schematically depicts a top, front-side exploded view of thelens assembly depicted in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7 schematically depicts a partial side view of an optical cableassembly coupled to an electronics device via optical couplingsaccording to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIGS. 8A-8F depict explanatory representative magnetic coding patternsof a rectangular shaped coded magnetic array according to one or moreembodiments shown and described herein;

FIGS. 9A-9D depict explanatory representative magnetic coding patternsof a circular-shaped coded magnetic array according to one or moreembodiments shown and described herein;

FIGS. 10A and 10B schematically depict exemplary coded magnetic arraysof an optical assembly provided in a connector assembly according to oneor more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 11 schematically depicts an optical coupling of an electronicsdevice having a coded magnetic array within an optical interface and aconnector assembly of an optical cable assembly according to one or moreembodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 12 schematically depicts an optical coupling of another electronicsdevice having a coded magnetic array within an optical interface and aconnector assembly of an optical cable assembly according to one or moreembodiments shown and described herein;

FIGS. 13A and 13B schematically depict a device optical interfaceassembly and a connector optical interface assembly according to one ormore embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 13C schematically depicts a cross-sectional, top, side perspectiveview of a connector optical interface assembly coupled to a deviceoptical interface assembly according to one or more embodiments shownand described herein;

FIG. 14A schematically depicts a top, front-side perspective view of aconnector assembly having a translating ferrule assembly according toone or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 14B schematically depicts a partial view of the connector assemblydepicted in FIG. 14A with the ferrule assembly in an extended positionaccording to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 14C schematically depicts a partial view of the connector assemblydepicted in FIG. 14A with the ferrule assembly in a retracted positionaccording to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

FIG. 14D schematically depicts a partial cut-away view of the connectorassembly depicted in FIG. 14A and a close-up partial view of aretractable ferrule assembly according to one or more embodiments shownand described here;

FIG. 15 schematically depicts a perspective view of an optical couplingof an electronics device configured to mate with the connector assemblydepicted in FIGS. 14A-14C according to one or more embodiments shown anddescribed herein; and

FIG. 16 schematically depicts still another connector assembly of anoptical cable assembly coupled to an optical coupling of an electronicsdevice according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments are directed to optical couplings, such as optical couplingsutilized by optical cable assemblies and/or electronic devices such as ahost or client electronics device. For instance, the device may convertoptical signals by a transceiver circuit and transmit the same over oneor more optical fibers or other optical component for opticalcommunication. Likewise, optical signals received by a host or clientelectronics device may be converted from optical signals into electricalsignals by the transceiver circuit. Embodiments described and disclosedherein may enable precise coupling between optical components by the useof coded magnetic arrays. Use of such coded magnetic arrays mayeliminate the need for precisely dimensioned mechanical components suchas pin or rail components for alignment of optical components (e.g.,optical fibers and/or active optical components, such as lasers,photodiodes, etc.) of the optical coupling; however, the use ofalignment structure is still possible with the concepts disclosedherein. Coded magnetic arrays may enable a planar optical interface withlittle or no mechanical structures for effectuating optical couplingrequiring a relatively large number of mating cycles. Moreover, thecoded magnetic arrays allow optical interfaces that are planar, therebymaking the cleaning of the optical interface relatively easy. Stillfurther, embodiments described herein may provide a liquid-displacingplanar optical interface wherein liquids are forced out of the opticalinterface upon coupling so that any affect on optical performance isreduced.

Embodiments described herein may enable planar, liquid-displacingoptical interfaces to precisely align optical components of coupleddevice (e.g., optical fibers and/or active optical components, such aslaser and photodiodes) without significant mechanical structure.

In some embodiments, the optical interface may comprise some structuralfeatures for alignment and/or securing the connection but the region ofoptical coupling may still remain substantially planar for cleaning andthe like. Embodiments use coded magnetic arrays to precisely alignoptical components within a given tolerance for the mated opticalcouplings of the devices. The coded magnetic arrays may also provide amagnetic force to maintain a coupled relationship between the opticalcouplings of the mated devices along with alignment. Optical couplings,as well as optical cable assemblies, connector assemblies, andelectronics devices, will be described in further detail herein withspecific reference to the appended figures.

Referring initially to FIG. 1A, a schematic illustration of an opticalcoupling 152 is illustrated. Generally, the optical coupling comprises acoupling face 151, an optical interface 156 positioned within thecoupling face 151, and at least one coded magnetic array 153 a, 153 bhaving a plurality of magnetic regions (not visible). As used herein,“within” means within, recessed, behind, at, or near. The opticalinterface 156 may have one or more optical components (not visible inFIG. 1A), such as laser diodes, photo diodes, optical fiber ends, etc.Optical couplings 152 may or may not use components such as lenses forbeam expansion, collimating, etc. of the optical signal for improvingthe coupling of the optical signal. For instance, the optical coupling152 may optionally include one or more lenses 157 within the opticalinterface 156 for aligning optical signals of optical components to theoptical components of a mated optical coupling. In other embodiments, alens is not utilized such that, in a cable assembly, the ends of one ormore optical fibers are coupled directly to a mated optical coupling.Exemplary optical couplings are described in detail below and may beused with other suitable embodiments as appropriate.

FIG. 1B depicts an electronics device 150 and an optical cable assembly100 each having a respective optical coupling in a coupled relationship(i.e., mated together) according to one embodiment. As described indetail below, the electronics device 150 and the optical cable assembly100 are optically coupled via an optical interface on both theelectronics device 150 and the optical cable assembly 100. In someembodiments, the optical interface may be described as a planar opticalinterface or substantially planar optical interface, wherein the opticalinterface is generally planar with respect to a coupling face, such asthe front face of a connector or a housing of an electronics device Asused herein, the term “planar” in relation to the optical interfacemeans that the optical interface is generally or substantially flat suchthat the optical interface or surface is accessible and easily wiped bya user (i.e., cleaned to remove dirt, dust and/or debris) and theoptical interface may be recessed, flush, protrude and/or be angled froma coupling face as desired As an example, the optical interface isplanar even if the optical interface is angled with respect to thecoupling face such as an angle between zero degrees and ten degrees,although other angles are possible. As explanatory examples, theelectronics device 150 may be any electronics device, including, but notlimited to, a portable media player, a cellular phone (e.g., a “smartphone”) a data storage device (e.g., an external hard drive or aflash-based memory device), a digital camera, a personal, laptop,notebook, or tablet computer, a camcorder, a mobile electronics device,a server, or the like. In other words, the electronics device 150 may beany device wherein data is transferred between a first device and asecond device using an optical signal for a portion of the transmission.

Embodiments described herein enable electronics devices to be opticallycoupled to each other for transferring data optically between thecoupled electronic devices. In one embodiment, the electronics devicesconvert electrical signals into optical signals for optical transmissionover the optical cable assembly 100 for receipt by one or more opticallycoupled electronics devices. The electronics devices may also beconfigured to receive optical signals over the optical cable assembly100 and convert such received optical signals into electrical signals.Further, the optical interfaces on the cable assembly and the electronicdevice are complimentary for mating together for signal transmissiontherebetween and may use the same structure or different structures asdesired.

Generally, the electronics device 150 may have an external housing thatcomprises a coupling face 151, such as a housing surface of theelectronics device 150. The coupling face 151 of the electronics device150 is the surface on which an optical cable assembly 100 or like devicemay be optically coupled for signal transmission. Optical cable assembly100 may generally comprise a connector assembly 101 having connectorhousing 105 and a coupling face (not visible in FIG. 1) and an opticalcable 102.

FIGS. 2 and 3A show an optical coupling 152 of electronics device 150and FIG. 3B shows a connector assembly 101 of an optical cable assembly100 according to one embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates anelectronics device 150, and FIG. 3A illustrates a close-up view of theoptical coupling 152 of the electronics device 150. FIG. 3B illustratesan optical coupling 152′ of the connector assembly 101. It is noted thatthe optical coupling 152′ of the connector assembly 101 shares similarcomponents as the optical coupling 152 of the electronics device 150,and that the optical coupling 152 of the device 150 will be described indetail; however, the description of the optical coupling 152 of theelectronics device illustrated in FIG. 3A also applies to the opticalcoupling 152′ and the other likewise components labeled with primenumbering in the connector assembly 101 illustrated in FIG. 3B, exceptas generally noted herein. The connector assembly 101 of FIG. 3B isreconfigured as an off-axis connector meaning optical cable 102 does notenter connector housing 105 in the same direction as the opticaltransmission axis of the connector assembly 101 as shown. Morespecifically, connector assembly 101 is a right-angle connector, butother angled or offset connector configurations such as 30 or 45 degreeconnectors are possible according to the concepts disclosed herein.

The optical cable assembly 100 may be mated with the electronics device150 via their respective optical couplings (i.e., one optical couplingon each device). The optical coupling 152 is located on the couplingface 151 (i.e., side or portion) of the electronics device 150.Likewise, a corresponding optical coupling may be located on thecoupling face (not numbered) of the optical cable assembly 100 such asillustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3B. Regardless whether the optical coupling152 is located on a cable assembly or electronics device it generallycomprises an optical interface 156, an optical component positionedbehind or within the optical interface 156 (see FIGS. 4A and 4B), and atleast one coded magnetic array 153 a and 153 b. As illustrated, theoptical interface 156 is a planar optical interface 156; however, itshould be understood that the optical interface that is planar maycomprise features that make portions non-planar or off-set with respectto the coupling face, but still are in-scope of the planar definitionused herein and allow access for cleaning. In one embodiment, severaloptical components may be arranged as an array of individual opticalcomponents.

FIG. 3A is a close-up view of the optical coupling 152 depicted in FIG.2, the optical interface 156 is planar and generally flush with thecoupling face 151 such that the planar optical interface 156 may beeasily wiped off to remove or displace liquid and other substances thatmay inhibit or interfere with optical transmission between theelectronics device 150 and the optical cable assembly 100 of the opticalconnection. However, some embodiments of the optical coupling may havefeatures that are not flush with the coupling face 151, or are raisedabove and/or recessed from the coupling face 151 such as for scratchprotection and the like.

The planar optical interface 156 illustrated in FIG. 3A comprises aoptically transmissive front face 159 and one or more lens components157, which may be configured as an array of lens components. Anysuitable number of lens components 157 may be provided depending on thenumber of optical channels utilized by the electronics device 150 and/oroptical cable assembly 100. Various embodiments of lens components 157are described in detail herein and may provide signal beam expansion orfocusing to aid with signal transmission efficiency. The opticallytransmissive front face 159 should be optically transmissive to theoptical signals transmitted therethrough such that the optical signalsmay be passed through the optically transmissive front face 159 andreceived by the coupled devices. In one embodiment, the opticallytransmissive front face 159 comprises a strengthened glass sheet, suchas Corning® Gorilla® glass, but other suitable materials are possiblefor the optically transmissive front face. Generally, the planar opticalinterface 156 should be configured such that it displaces (i.e. inhibitdroplets) liquids when mated and is planar to allow cleaning ofaccumulated liquids, grime, dust and other contaminates.

Stated another way, the optical interfaces described herein may beliquid displacing when coupled to a complementary planar opticalinterface, such that fluids present on either optically transmissivefront face 159 are displaced (i.e., spread-out) upon coupling and do notunduly interfere with the transmission of optical signals. In someembodiments, the optically transmissive front face 159 may be coatedwith a coating or otherwise treated such that it is hydrophobic, and anyliquid present on the optically transmissive front face 159 is easilydisplaced, thereby reducing the lens affect for any liquid present.Other coatings or treatments may be applied to the transparent frontface 159, such as chemical strengthening, anti-reflection, lamination,diffractive, and hydrophilic coatings as desired. In one embodiment, theoptical interface comprises diffractive components instead of lenses forproviding enhanced optical coupling between mated optical couplings. Thediffractive components may, for example, be structures positioned on orwithin the optically transmissive front face 159 (e.g., structuresetched onto the transmissive front face 159).

The optical interfaces of the embodiments described herein may be planarand configured to be coupled to a corresponding (i.e., complementary)optical interface for making a mated optical coupling. In oneembodiment, the planar optical interface of a first optical coupling isconfigured to physically contact the planar optical interface of asecond, mated optical coupling such that liquid present on the firstplanar optical interface and/or the second planar optical interface isdisplaced about the optical couplings. In another embodiment, the planaroptical interface is configured to be in close proximity to a matedoptical interface, but not intended to contact optical interfaces whenin a coupled relationship. As an example and not a limitation, theplanar optical interface of a first optical coupling may be configuredto be within 100 microns (μm) of the planar optical interface of asecond, mated optical coupling. Other distances between the planaroptical interfaces may be utilized depending on the application.

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, internal components of the opticalcoupling 152 of the illustrated electronics device 150 are illustratedschematically in a cut-away view. Specifically, FIG. 4B is a close-upview of the optical coupling depicted in FIG. 4A and a portion of theexternal housing of the electronics device 150 is shown as removed forillustration purposes. Generally, the optical coupling of theelectronics device may include one or more active optical components,such as a laser diode (e.g., VCSEL, distributed Bragg reflector laser,Fabry-Perot laser, etc.) or a photodiode, while the optical coupling ofthe optical cable assembly may include a lens component and an opticalfiber for optical signal transmission, for example.

In one embodiment, the optical coupling 152 comprises an opticalcoupling housing 160 in which the optically transmissive front face 159of the planar optical interface 156 may be mounted via a bezel feature161 or other mounting arrangement. For the sake of clarity in theillustration, the optically transmissive front face 159, as well as lenscomponents 157 of a lens assembly 110, are removed from FIG. 4B (seeFIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B). The optical coupling housing 160 may extend intothe electronics device 150 and maintain one or more active opticalcomponents 170, such as laser diodes (e.g., VCSEL laser diodes, DBRlaser diodes, etc.) and photodiodes such as mounted to a substrate suchas a PCB or the like for the transmission and receipt of opticalsignals. FIG. 4C schematically shows an collimated optical signal 190 aspassing through the optically transmissive front face 159, and focusedby a lens assembly 110, and making a turn by a reflective rear surface162 such as by a right-angle turn. Optical signals may be generated orreceived in this manner by the active optical components maintainedwithin the optical coupling housing. It should be understood that otherconfigurations are also possible besides different angles, includingthose that do not reflect the optical signal 190; but, instead directthe optical signal to the active optical components without redirectingthe optical signal.

The lens assembly 110, as well as the optically transmissive front face159, may take on a variety of different configurations as desired. FIGS.5, 6A, and 6B illustrate two of many possible implementations asexplanatory embodiments. FIG. 5 illustrates a lens assembly 110 havingintegral lens components comprising a ferrule body 111 and a lens cap113. In this embodiment, optical fibers (not shown) are inserted intothe ferrule body 111 through a fiber bore 112 up to a ferrule end face114, such that a fiber end of the optical fiber is positioned at acoupling end defined by the ferrule end face 114 (i.e., a fiber endlocation). During insertion, the optical fiber may extend beyond theferrule end face 114 wherein it is then cleaved or finished (e.g., by alaser cleaving process or the like) such that it is substantially flushwith the ferrule end face 114. In another embodiment, a mechanical stopmay be utilized to ensure that the optical fiber is substantially flushwith the ferrule end face 114. The optical fiber may be bonded into theferrule body 111 using a suitable adhesive. Of course, otherconfigurations are possible using other shapes, parts, arrangements, etcfor the ferrule body.

The lens cap 113 may comprise an integral lens component 117 that mayform the lens components 157 illustrated in FIG. 3A. The integral lenscomponent 117 may focus the optical signal for transmission or receptionas illustrated in FIG. 4C, for example. In one embodiment, the lens cap113 may comprise ribs 116 a, 116 b that may be positioned intocorresponding recesses 115 a, 115 b of the ferrule body 111 for securingthe same. The lens cap 113 may then be secured and/or bonded to theferrule body 111. In this embodiment, an external surface of the lenscap 113 may form at least a portion of the optically transmissive frontface 159. In this manner, the transparent front face 159 and the lenscomponents 157 may be integrated into a single component. Otherconfigurations are also possible for the lens cap.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate another possible configuration for the lensassembly and optically transmissive front face. In this embodiment,external lenses are converted to internal lenses via a lens cover thatmay act as the optically transmissive front face 159. The lens assembly210 generally comprises a lens assembly body 211 and an opticallytransmissive cover 259. The lens assembly 210 may comprise a lens array220 of several lens components 217 (e.g., similar to the lens components157 illustrated in FIG. 3A), optical fiber recesses 219, and opticalfiber bores 212 opening to optical signal apertures. An optical fiber oran optical fiber stub may be provided within the lens assembly body 211within the optical fiber recesses and optical fiber bores 212. In oneembodiment, the optical fibers may be maintained within the opticalfiber recesses 219 by fiber securing structures 218 and/or an adhesive.Optical signals propagating within the optical fibers may pass into andout of the lens assembly body 211 at a rear surface 223 via the opticalsignal apertures defined by the optical fiber bores 212. When the lensassembly body 211 is provided within an optical coupling of anelectronics device (e.g., the electronics device 150 illustrated inFIGS. 4A-4C), the optical signals propagating into and out of the lensassembly body 211 at the rear surface 223 may be passed to and fromactive optical components, such as laser diodes and photodiodes (e.g.,active optical component). When the lens assembly body 211 is providedwithin an optical coupling of an optical cable assembly (e.g., theoptical cable assembly illustrated in FIG. 1), the optical signalspropagating into and out of the lens assembly body 211 at the rearsurface 223 may be passed to and from optical fibers of the opticalcable assembly.

The optically transmissive cover 259 converts the external lenscomponents 217 into internal lens components such that that the lenscomponents 217 are positioned behind the optically transmissive cover259. The optically transmissive cover 259 may be attached or coupled tothe lens array 220 by a variety of mechanical coupling methods. In theillustrated embodiment, a centrally-located coupling rod 221 protrudesfrom a face of the lens array 220 and is configured for aligning andreceiving the optically transmissive cover 259 via a centrally-locatedhole 222. Moreover, the skilled artisan understands that otherstructures may be provided on either component for securing/attachingthe cover such as with a snap-fit. For instance, corner castellationsmay also be provided on a front face of the lens array 220 that areconfigured to be coupled to grooves or other features of the opticallytransmissive cover 259 to aid in coupling. Many other various couplingarrangements are possible and may be utilized with the concepts discloseherein. Additionally, various lens component configurations may beutilized. In one embodiment, the lens components are configured asgradient-index (GRIN) lenses, but other suitable lenses are possible formanipulating the optical signal.

For optimal optical coupling, the optical component(s) of a firstoptical coupling should be properly aligned with the opticalcomponent(s) of a second optical coupling. For example, the opticalcomponents of an electronics device may be laser and photodiodes, whilethe optical components of an optical cable assembly may be the ends ofoptical fibers within an optical cable assembly. When the optical cableassembly is coupled to the electronics device, the ends of the opticalfibers should be aligned with the laser and photodiodes for properoptical signal transmission. In embodiments that utilize lenses, suchlenses of each coupled device should be properly aligned. The toleranceon alignment for optical couplings should be less than 80 μm; and, morepreferably the tolerance on alignment for optical coupling is less than40 μm between the respective optical transmission centerlines of therespective channels for efficient optical coupling. In one embodiment,the tolerance on alignment between the corresponding optical couplingsmay be on the order of 30-40 μm, and more preferably, 10-20 μm.

Conventional optical connections use mechanical features for providingthese precise alignment requirements. However, such mechanical featuresmay not be necessary on planar interfaces such as those describedherein, although some mechanical features may be provided as desired orrequired. Embodiments described herein utilize coded magnetic arrays toprovide alignment between the optical components of two mated opticalcouplings. Coded magnetic arrays are advantageous since the use of manyindividual magnetic regions may allow for random alignment errors of asingle magnet-to-magnet coupling relationship to cancel out. The codedmagnetic arrays described herein may allow for optical couplings toself-align with respect to one another. Uses of such coded magneticarrays are also useful for a liquid displacing optical interface.Consequently, conventional magnetics should not be confused with codedmagnetics; moreover, the coded magnets may allow for smaller toleranceon alignment compared with conventional magnetics.

Referring once again to FIG. 3A, two coded magnetic arrays 153 a and 153b comprising individual magnetic regions 154 may be positioned next to afirst edge 158 a and second edge 158 b of planar optical interface 156,respectively. Although FIG. 3A illustrates two coded magnetic arrays 153a, 153 b, more or fewer coded magnetic arrays may be provided (e.g., asillustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, a single coded magnetic array ofvarious configurations may be used). The individual magnetic regions 154may be embedded into the coupling face 151 or located at a surface. Forexample, the magnetic regions may be configured as individual magnetsthat are maintained within magnet recesses of the coupling face 151. Inanother embodiment, the magnetic regions may be configured as individualmagnets that are provided in a molded magnet holder that is theninserted into an opening of the coupling face. In yet anotherembodiment, the magnetic regions may be configured as a bulk magneticmaterial that is magnetized to form the desired magnetic regions such asmagnetizing in situ so that the coded magnetics are referenced to theoptical coupling in situ. In other words, the bulk magnetic material maybe coded using a station to apply a specified magnetic field to“magnetically write” to the bulk material at a predetermined location.

An in situ magnetizing process is one in which bulk magnetic material ismagnetized in precise zones (i.e., desired magnetic regions) in placewithin the device. The in situ process may advantageously eliminate theneed for the assembly of small magnets difficult and time-consumingmanufacturing techniques. In one embodiment, the lens assembly maycontain recesses into which suitable magnetic material could bedeposited or attached. The lens assembly having the magnetic materialmay then be optically aligned to a device that imparts the codedmagnetic properties to the bulk magnetic material in a predeterminedpolarity array. In another embodiment, the bulk magnetic material may beprovided within the coupling face rather than the lens assembly or othersuitable location.

The coded magnetic arrays 153 a and 153 b are coded in the sense thatthe polarity of each magnetic region is in accordance with a magneticcoding pattern such that a first coded magnetic array may only mate witha corresponding coded magnetic array having a magnetic coding patternthat is opposite from the magnetic coding pattern of the first codedmagnetic array. FIG. 7 depicts a close-up view of the optical cableassembly 100 coupled to the electronics device 150 illustrated inFIG. 1. The polarization of the individual magnetic regions 154 of thecoupling face 151 of the electronic device optical coupling 150 aremagnetically attracted to the polarization of the individual magneticregions 154′ of the coupling face 106 of the optical cable assembly 100since respective regions 154 and 154′ have opposite polarities.Moreover, it is the plurality of individual magnetic regions that allowthe precise alignment (e.g., tighter alignment tolerance) since theyreduce the variance in offset when mating.

By way of explanation, FIGS. 8A-8F illustrate exemplary magnetic codingpatterns for rectangular-shaped pattern coded magnetic arrays 153, whileFIGS. 9A-9D illustrate exemplary magnetic coding patterns forcircular-shaped pattern coded magnetic arrays 153. As a reference forthe figures, the cross-hatching on individual magnetic regions representa first polarity and the non-hatched individual magnetic regionsrepresent a second polarity. Embodiments disclosed herein are notlimited to the magnetic coding patterns illustrated in FIGS. 8A-9D, butare shown to illustrate the concepts of magnetic coding patterns and thenumerous possibilities. Many other magnetic coding patterns andgeometric coded magnetic arrays are possible and can include differentnumbers and arrangements of individual magnetic regions. For instance,the magnetic coding pattern may depend on the magnetic region size,strength, and desired attraction and polarity forces. The magneticcoding pattern that is chosen should be such that the two opticalcouplings only mate in one way (i.e., magnetic keying of the opticalcouplings). In one embodiment, the magnetic regions may be configured asa pin-in-hole magnetic profile so that the different polarities create avirtual alignment pin and hole with the magnetic regions.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show a coupling face 106 of a connector assembly 101of an optical cable assembly 100 having two different examples of codedmagnetic array configurations, and that many other configurations arepossible. The individual magnetic regions 154′ form a single codedmagnetic region disposed about a perimeter the planar optical interface156 instead of on each side. It should be understood that acorresponding electronics device optical coupling may have the samecoded magnetic array configuration (i.e., location and spacing) as thoseillustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, but that the polarity of some of theindividual magnetic regions are different for creating a magneticallyattractive force. The arrangements of the individual magnetic regions154′ illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B may provide torque isolation suchthat the optical cable assembly 100 is not easily disconnected from thedevice inadvertently.

Accordingly, use of such a coded magnetic array or arrays may providefor fully planar optical interfaces for both optical couplings of anoptical cable assembly and electronics device, respectively. Theelimination of mechanical structures for alignment may allow for simplecleaning and reducing the places that dirt and other substances may gettrapped. In other words, the end user can quickly, simply and easilywipe off the optical interface for cleaning. The embodiments describedherein may also comprise electrically conductive features to providepower between coupled devices. Exemplary embodiments of suchelectrically conductive features are described below.

By way of explanation, FIGS. 11-13C illustrate optical couplingembodiments wherein the coded magnetic array(s) are located within,rather than adjacent to, the planar optical interface. Embodimentsproviding electrical connections are also depicted.

Referring first to FIG. 11, an electronics device 350 and a connector301 of an optical cable assembly are illustrated. An optical coupling352 of the electronics device 350 is shown in detail and connector 301comprises a corresponding optical coupling, although it is not visiblein the view shown in FIG. 11. Connector 301 also includes two maleelectrically conductive features in the form of spring-loaded,electrically conductive pins 308 that are configured to contactelectrically conductive regions 380 (e.g., electrically conductiverecesses) located on the coupling face 351 of the electronics device 350and adjacent a first edge 358 a and a second edge 358 b of the planaroptical interface 356. The electrically conductive pins 308 andelectrically conductive regions 380 may enable a host device to providea client device with electrical power in one embodiment. For example,the optical cable assembly may comprise two electrical conductors (notshown) that span the length of the optical cable assembly and areelectrically coupled to the electrically conductive pins. As an exampleand not a limitation, the optical cable assembly may be connected to apersonal computer (i.e., a host device) at one end and a portableelectronics device (i.e., a client device) at a second end. The hostdevice may provide electrical power via the electrical conductors, theelectrically conductive pins 308, and the electrically conductiveregions 380.

The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11 has an optical coupling 352 thatcomprises two coded magnetic arrays 353 a, 353 b and an opticalinterface 356 having four lens components 357 in an array that areoptically coupled to optical components. In an alternative embodiment,such as a connector assembly, the lens components are eliminated and theends of the optical fibers are positioned at the optical interface 356such as generally flush. The optical interface 356 of the illustratedembodiment is slightly recessed, but still is substantially planar. Theoptical components of the optical coupling for the electronics devicemay be laser and/or photodiodes, while the optical components of theoptical coupling for the connector 301 may be optical fiber ends, asdescribed above. Of course, more or fewer lens components may beprovided, depending on the particular application and protocol. In theillustrated embodiment, the two coded magnetic arrays 353 a, 353 bcomprise magnetic regions that are arranged in a grid pattern forproviding more individual magnetic regions in a relatively smallfootprint. As an example and not a limitation, the magnetic codingpattern may be configured as a checkerboard pattern of alternatingmagnetic polarities. Other magnetic coding patterns may also be providedas desired.

The size, density, arrangement and/or polarity of the individualmagnetic regions can be tailored for the desired performance. Forinstance, the size of the individual magnetic regions of a grid may betailored for improving alignment characteristics. By way of example, thepolygonal shape of the individual magnetic regions may have any suitablesize such as 1 millimeter square or less, 0.5 millimeter square or less,or 0.1 millimeter square or less. Of course, other shapes, sizes and/orarrangements are possible for the individual magnetic regions using theconcepts disclosed.

In one embodiment, the coded magnetic arrays are configured as bulkmagnetic material maintained within the planar optical interface 356.The magnetic coding pattern of the coded magnetic arrays 353 a, 353 bmay be imparted in situ as described above, or formed prior to beingapplied to the planar optical interface 356.

The coded magnetic arrays 353 a, 353 b both precisely self-align thelens components of the optical coupling of the connector with the lenscomponents 357 of the optical coupling 352 of the electronics device, aswell as maintain the connection between the connector 301 and theelectronics device 350 via magnetic force. For instance, the tolerancesof the alignment may be as described herein.

FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment similar to FIG. 11 whereinthe optical interface 452 is planar and comprises a single codedmagnetic array 453 that is positioned off to one side of the lenscomponents 457. Other configurations and/or arrangements are alsopossible. Further, the optical coupling 352, although depicted as beingrectangular in shape, may have other shapes, such as circular orelliptical, for example.

FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate a connector optical interface assembly 410 anda corresponding device optical interface assembly 460 according to oneembodiment. FIG. 13A depicts an optical interface 456 that is planar.The planar optical interface 456 of the device optical interfaceassembly 460 and a rear surface of the connector optical interfaceassembly 410. FIG. 13B depicts an optical interface 403 of the connectoroptical interface assembly 410 and a rear surface of the device opticalinterface assembly 460. FIG. 13C depicts a device optical interfaceassembly 460 coupled to a connector optical interface assembly 410. Theconnector optical interface assembly 410 and the device opticalinterface assembly 460 may be made of a material that is opaque to theoptical signals propagating therein.

Referring specifically to FIG. 13A, the device optical interface 456 hasa single coded magnetic array 453 that is adjacent to lens components457. In one embodiment, the lens components 457 are configured as GRINlenses within the bulk of the device optical interface assembly 460. Thedevice optical interface assembly 460 further comprises an angled rearwall 462 within an optical path of the optical signals so that theoptical signal is focused/collimated by the lens components 457 andturns the optical signals in another direction such as a right-turn(e.g., approximately ninety degrees). The device optical interfaceassembly 460 may be mounted onto a substrate such as a printed circuitboard (PCB) 172 within the electronics device via legs 463, such thatactive optical components may be positioned under the device opticalinterface assembly 460 and aligned with the lens components 457 by wayof the angled rear wall, as described above and depicted in FIGS. 4B and4C.

The rear surface 413 of the connector optical interface assembly 410 maycomprise fiber bores 412 that are configured to receive optical fibersof an optical cable assembly. The optical fibers may be secured withinthe fiber bores 412 by an adhesive, for example, and may be opticallycoupled to the lens components 457′ like GRIN lenses such as describedherein. FIG. 13B illustrates a connector optical interface 403 thatcorresponds to the device optical interface 456 illustrated in FIG. 13A.

FIG. 13C is a cross-sectional view of the connector optical interfaceassembly 410 and the device optical interface assembly 460 showing acoupled relationship. As shown in FIG. 13C, the fiber bores 412 ofconnector optical interface assembly 410 may be configured asillustrated in FIG. 5. In one embodiment, the diameter of the fiberbores 412 may become larger away from the lens components 457′ for easeof insertion of the optical fiber. The connector optical interfaceassembly 410 and the device optical interface assembly 460 are showncoupled together by a completely flat interface without the use ofmechanical alignment and engagement structures. The coded magneticarrays of each interface allow the lens components of the respectiveoptical couplings to be automatically aligned with one another foroptimum optical coupling such as using the tolerance for alignment asdisclosed herein.

FIGS. 14A-16 depict another embodiment of an optical coupling of anoptical cable assembly and an electronics device in which the opticalcoupling of the optical cable assembly is configured to translate withina connector housing. Referring to FIGS. 14A-14D, one embodiment of anoptical cable assembly 500 comprising an optical coupling configured asa retractable ferrule assembly 510 is illustrated. As described in moredetail below, the ferrule assembly 510, which includes an opticalinterface 552, is configured to translate within the connector housing505 such that it remains protected from contaminants, and is stilleasily accessible to clean for removing dirt and debris. According toone embodiment, the optical cable assembly 500 comprises a fiber opticcable 502 comprising one or more optical fibers, and a connectorassembly 501 comprising a connector housing 505, a plug portion 530defining a plug enclosure, first and second arms 532 a, 532 b and aferrule assembly 510. The ferrule assembly 510 is configured totranslate within the connector housing 505 and the plug portion 530along the y-axis, which may be the optical axis of which the opticalsignal propagates. Embodiments are not limited to the configurationillustrated in FIGS. 14A-14D, and other variations are possibleaccording to the concepts disclosed herein. For example, someembodiments may not have the plug portion 530 such that the ferruleassembly 510 is fully enclosed by the connector housing 505.

The connector housing 505, which may be made of a dielectric material,such as plastic, defines a connector enclosure and a connector housingopening from which the plug portion 530 extends and the ferrule assembly510 is disposed. The plug portion 530 may be configured as a sleeve thatmates with a corresponding female plug region of an electronics device.In one embodiment, the plug portion 530 is electrically conductive suchthat it may couple the electronics device to a ground referencepotential. In another embodiment, the plug portion 530 is electricallyisolative. The plug portion 530 may comprise an access recess 539configured as a notch therein to provide access to an optical couplingregion 556 of the ferrule assembly 510 in the event that the opticalcoupling region 556 needs to be wiped clean.

This embodiment also includes structure for alignment in addition to aretractable ferrule assembly. The first and second arms 532 a, 532 b,which may be configured to mate with first and second sockets 586 a, 586b of an electronics device (FIG. 15), may provide mechanical coupling ofthe optical cable assembly 500 to the electronics device such that theconnection may be able to withstand greater forces than a magneticcoupling alone. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second arms532 a, 532 b each comprise a dielectric portion 534 a, 534 b onto whichan electrically conductive portion 533 a, 533 b is located. Theelectrically conductive portion 533 a, 533 b may be included to provideelectrical power between the coupled electronics devices. Of course, thefirst and second arms 532 a, 532 b may be entirely electricallyconductive or entirely dielectric depending on the particularapplication.

As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14A, the ferrule assembly510 is similar to the connector optical interface assembly 410illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B. The ferrule assembly 510 provides anoptical interface 552 comprising an optical coupling region 558 havingone or more lens components 557 for optically coupling (i.e., opticalcommunication) with the optical fibers of the fiber optic cable 502, asdescribed above. The optical interface 552 illustrated in 15A is aplanar optical interface. More or fewer lens components may be provided,and the lens components may be arranged in different configurations. Acoded magnetic array 553 may be positioned adjacent to the opticalcoupling region, and may be formed or otherwise configured as describedabove such that the coded magnetic array 553 comprises a plurality ofmagnetic regions having a polarity (i.e., a predetermined array of afirst magnetic polarity or a second magnetic polarity) in accordancewith a magnetic coding pattern. The planar optical interface may take onother configurations, such as the two coded magnetic arrays 353 a, 353 billustrated in FIG. 11, as well as many other configurations.

Referring now to FIGS. 14B and 14C, the connector assembly 501 of theoptical cable assembly 500 is illustrated with the connector housing anda portion of the plug portion 530 removed to reveal the internalcomponents of the optical cable assembly 500. FIG. 14B illustrates theferrule assembly 510 in an extended position, while FIG. 14C illustratesthe ferrule assembly 510 in a retracted position along the y-axis. Inthe embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 14B and 14C, the first and secondarms 532 a, 532 b extend from a bias member base portion 535 within theconnector enclosure defined by the connector housing 505. The biasmember base portion 535 may be secured to a rear portion of theconnector housing 505 or have other suitable mounting. The ferruleassembly 510 may be disposed between the first and second arms 532 a,532 b such that it does not contact the first and second arms 532 a, 532b in an at-rest position, thereby allowing the ferrule assembly 510 tomove back and forth slightly along the x-axis.

A rear face of the ferrule assembly 510 may be mechanically coupled tothe bias member base portion 535 by a bias member 536. The bias member536 may take on a variety of forms, and is configured to provide aspring force on the ferrule assembly 510 such that the ferrule assembly510 may translate along the y-axis and is biased forward. The ferruleassembly 510 may retract into the connector housing 505 when the opticalcable assembly 500 is coupled to an electronics device, and then returnto an extended position when the optical cable assembly is removed fromthe electronics device. The bias member 536 may be configured as one ormore compression springs as illustrated in FIGS. 14B and 14C, or assprings having other configurations. Because the ferrule assembly 510 isfree to move slightly along the x-axis, the ferrule assembly 510 has thefreedom to be self-aligned by the coded magnetic array 553.

The bias member base portion 535 may also comprise an optical fiberguide region 537 configured to route the optical fibers 570 of theoptical cable to the optical fiber bores and lens elements of theferrule assembly 510. In an alternative embodiment, the optical cableassembly 500 does not include a bias member base portion 535 such thatthe bias member is coupled directly to a rear portion of the connectorhousing 505 within the connector enclosure.

FIG. 14D depicts a side view of the connector assembly depicted in FIGS.14A-14C with a portion of ferrule assembly 510, the plug portion 530,and the dielectric portion 534 a of the electrically conductive portion533 a of the first arm 532 removed for clarity to reveal one of the lenscomponents 557 such as a GRIN lens or the like. Also shown in FIG. 14Dis a close-up view of the area labeled A to depict that the GRIN lenscomponent 557 has a facet with an angle α with respect to a front face511 of the ferrule assembly 510. The lens component 557 may have facetangle α to increase optical coupling. As an example and not alimitation, the angle α may be between about zero degrees to about tendegrees as desired. In another embodiment, the angle α may be less thanabout 5 degrees. Although the lens components 557 may have a facetangle, the optical interface is still substantially planar because theoptical interface may be easily wiped clean. Further, the lens mayslightly extend from the front face although it is shown slightlyrecessed.

FIG. 15 shows a corresponding optical coupling 652 of an electronicsdevice configured to mate with the optical cable assembly depicted inFIGS. 14A-14C according to one embodiment. The optical coupling 650 isconfigured as a recessed region (i.e., a coupling recess) within acoupling face 651 of the electronics device. The optical interface 652may be provided by an optical interface assembly similar to the deviceoptical interface assembly 460 illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B. Theoptical interface 652 and optical interface assembly may have agenerally planar surface, as illustrated in FIG. 15. The planar opticalinterface 652 may generally comprise a coded magnetic array 653 and anoptical coupling region (not numbered) comprising one or more lenscomponents 657. In the embodiment of FIG. 15, each lens component (e.g.,GRIN lens) comprises a raised rib alignment structure in a drafted bore.The planar optical interface 652 may be maintained within the recessedregion such that it is substantially flush with a coupling face 651 ofthe electronics device so that it may be easily wiped clean. However,the planar optical interface 652 may not be flush with the coupling face651 in other embodiments. The lens component 657 may extend beyond theplane defined by the planar optical interface 652. In one embodiment,the lens component 657 is configured as a GRIN lens that extends beyondthe surface of the planar optical interface and has a facet that isangled to enhance optical coupling. As an example and not a limitation,the facet of the lens components may be between 0 degrees to 10 degrees.Other facet angles may be utilized depending on the particularapplication.

The optical coupling 652 may further include a first socket 686 a and asecond socket 686 b configured to receive the first arm 532 a and thesecond arm 532 b of the optical cable assembly 500, respectively. Thefirst and second sockets 686 a, 686 b may take on configurations otherthan a socket depending on the configuration of the first and secondarms 532 a, 532 b. In alternative embodiments, more or fewer arms andsockets may be utilized. The first and second sockets 686 a, 686 b mayhave an electrically conductive portion configured to be electricallycoupled to the electrically conductive portion 533 a, 533 b of the firstand second arms 532 a, 532 b. In an alternative embodiment, the opticalcoupling of the device has the male first and second arms and theoptical coupling of the connector has the female first and secondsockets.

FIG. 16 depicts a close-up view of a connector housing 505 of an opticalcable assembly 500 coupled to an electronics device 550 according to oneembodiment. Portions of the connector and device housings are shown asremoved to depict the internal components and coupling relationships. Anoperator inserts the plug portion 530 of the optical cable assembly 500into the optical coupling 652 of the electronics device 650 such thatthe first arm 532 a and the second arm 532 b of the optical cableassembly 500 contact a first electrically conductive contact 680 a and asecond electrically conductive contact 680 b of the electronics device650. As the connector assembly 501 is positioned into the opticalcoupling 652, the ferrule assembly 510 becomes in close proximity to theplanar optical interface 652 such that the individual magnetic regionsof the coded magnetic array 553 of the ferrule assembly 510 areattracted to the individual magnetic regions of the coded magnetic array653 of the electronics device 650. Because the ferrule assembly 510 isfree to move slightly in the x-axis direction, it has freedom within theconnector assembly 501 to move such that it is automatically alignedwith the planar optical interface 652. The ferrule assembly 510 iscoupled to the planar optical interface 652 by the magnetic force of thecoded magnetic arrays 553, 653. Accordingly, the lens components 557 ofthe ferrule assembly 510 are precisely aligned with the lens components657 of the planar optical interface 652 of the electronics device 650.

As the plug portion 530 is further inserted into the optical coupling652 of the electronics device 650, the bias member 536 is compressed,allowing the ferrule assembly 510 to be retracted within the connectorhousing 505 in the y-axis direction. The overall distance the ferruleassembly 510 is translated may depend on the dimensions of thecomponents of the connector assembly 501. The plug portion 530 and thefirst and second arms 532 a, 532 b provide structural support to theconnection between the optical cable assembly 500 and the electronicsdevice 650.

It is noted that terms like “typically,” when utilized herein, are notintended to limit the scope of the claimed invention or to imply thatcertain features are critical, essential, or even important to thestructure or function of the claimed invention. Rather, these terms aremerely intended to highlight alternative or additional features that mayor may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the presentinvention.

For the purposes of describing and defining the present invention it isnoted that the terms “approximately” and “about” are utilized herein torepresent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed toany quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or otherrepresentation.

We claim:
 1. An optical coupling comprising: a coupling face; an opticalinterface within the coupling face; an optical component positionedwithin the optical interface; and at least one coded magnetic array, theat least one coded magnetic array having a plurality of magnetic regionsconfigured for mating the optical component, and the at least one codedmagnetic array is located within the optical interface.
 2. The opticalcoupling of claim 1, wherein the optical component is optically alignedwith at least one GRIN lens.
 3. The optical coupling of claim 2, whereinthe at least one GRIN lens comprises a facet angled with respect to theoptical interface at an angle between 0 degrees to 10 degrees.
 4. Theoptical coupling of claim 1, wherein the optical interface issubstantially planar.
 5. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein: theoptical coupling further comprises a lens component optically coupled tothe optical component; and the at least one coded magnetic array isoperable to optically couple the lens component with a complimentarycomponent of a mated optical coupling to within less than 40 microns ofthe respective centerlines.
 6. The optical coupling of claim 1, whereinthe optical interface comprises: an optically transmissive front face;and a lens component positioned within an optical path between theoptically transmissive front face and the optical component.
 7. Theoptical coupling of claim 6, wherein the optically transmissive frontface comprises a glass sheet.
 8. The optical coupling of claim 6,wherein the optically transmissive front face comprises a diffractivecomponent.
 9. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein: the opticalcomponent comprises an array of individual optical components; and theoptical interface has a generally planar surface comprising: anoptically transmissive front face; and an array of lens componentspositioned within respective optical paths between the opticallytransmissive front face and the array of individual optical components.10. The optical coupling of claim 9, wherein the array of lenscomponents are GRIN lenses.
 11. The optical coupling of claim 1, whereinthe plurality of magnetic regions of the at least one coded magneticarray are arranged in a circular-shaped pattern, a rectangular-shapedpattern or a grid pattern.
 12. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein:the at least one coded magnetic array comprises a first coded magneticarray and a second coded magnetic array; and the first coded magneticarray and the second coded magnetic array are on opposite sides of theoptical interface.
 13. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein the atleast one coded magnetic array is arranged about a perimeter of theoptical interface.
 14. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein the atleast one coded magnetic array has a magnetic coding pattern defined bythe plurality of magnetic regions having a first magnetic polarity or asecond magnetic polarity.
 15. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein:each magnetic region comprises an individual magnet; the coupling facecomprises a plurality of magnet recesses; and individual magnets aremaintained within individual ones of the plurality of magnet recesses.16. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein: the at least one codedmagnetic array comprises a bulk magnetic material attached to thecoupling face; and the plurality of magnetic regions of the at least onecoded magnetic array are magnetized within the bulk magnetic materialaccording to a magnetic coding pattern.
 17. The optical coupling ofclaim 16, wherein: the optical interface comprises an optical couplingregion further comprising at least one lens component that is opticallycoupled to the optical component.
 18. The optical coupling of claim 1,further comprising at least one electrically conductive component. 19.The optical coupling of claim 18, wherein the at least one electricallyconductive component comprises a spring-loaded, electrically conductivepin.
 20. The optical coupling of claim 18, wherein the at least oneelectrically conductive feature comprises an electrically conductiverecess.
 21. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein the opticalcoupling is a portion of an optical cable assembly or an electronicdevice.
 22. The optical coupling of claim 1, wherein the opticalcomponent is selected from the group consisting of: an optical fiber, anactive optical component, a vertical cavity side-emitting laser, and aphotodiode.
 23. An optical coupling comprising: a coupling face; anoptical interface within the coupling face, the optical interfaceincluding an optically transmissive front face and a lens component; anoptical component positioned within the optical interface, wherein thelens component is positioned within an optical path between theoptically transmissive front face and the optical component; and atleast one coded magnetic array, the at least one coded magnetic arrayhaving a plurality of magnetic regions configured for mating the opticalcomponent, and the at least one coded magnetic array is located withinthe optical interface.
 24. The optical coupling of claim 23, wherein theoptically transmissive front face comprises a glass sheet.
 25. Theoptical coupling of claim 23, wherein the optically transmissive frontface comprises a diffractive component.
 26. The optical coupling ofclaim 23, wherein the at least one coded magnetic array is operable tooptically couple the lens component with a complimentary component of amated optical coupling to within less than 40 microns of the respectivecenterlines.
 27. An optical coupling comprising: a coupling face; anoptical interface within the coupling face; an optical componentpositioned within the optical interface; a lens component opticallycoupled to the optical component; and at least one coded magnetic array,the at least one coded magnetic array having a plurality of magneticregions configured for mating the optical component, wherein the atleast one coded magnetic array is operable to optically couple the lenscomponent with a complimentary component of a mated optical coupling towithin less than 40 microns of the respective centerlines.
 28. Theoptical coupling of claim 27, wherein the optically transmissive frontface comprises a glass sheet.
 29. The optical coupling of claim 27,wherein the optically transmissive front face comprises a diffractivecomponent.
 30. The optical coupling of claim 27, wherein the at leastone coded magnetic array comprises a first coded magnetic array and asecond coded magnetic array; and the first coded magnetic array and thesecond coded magnetic array are on opposite sides of the opticalinterface.